hypnotism

American  

[hip-nuh-tiz-uhm] / ˈhɪp nəˌtɪz əm /

noun

1. the science dealing with the induction of hypnosis.

2. the act of hypnotizing.

3. hypnosis.

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hypnotism British  

/ ˈhɪpnəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. the scientific study and practice of hypnosis

2. the process of inducing hypnosis

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Other Word Forms

• hypnotist noun
• hypnotistic adjective

Etymology

Origin of hypnotism

Shortening of neuro-hypnotism, term introduced by British surgeon James Braid (1795–1860) in 1842; hypnotic, -ism

Example Sentences

In the popular consciousness, hypnotism is the stuff of vampires, side shows and watch-waving therapists.

From New York Times • Aug. 15, 2022

He had a medical license, but participated in many fringe-y practices, like using hypnotism on his patients and “treating” people by mail.

From Slate • Jul. 30, 2021

The plot also includes a disturbing case of mass hypnotism and mind control.

From Washington Post • Jun. 30, 2021

"He had the old power idea of hypnotism," Freeman told investigators, according to "Killing the Dream," an account of King's assassination by Gerald Posner.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2018

What he was not interested in was hypnotism and prehistoric animals, as some pop-culture articles indicated.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady